Criteria for Selection
Once a student is accepted to UD, they are eligible to apply to become a Wendt Character Scholar. Selections are based on the following criteria:
- Accepted as a full-time student at the University of Dubuque in either the college (undergraduate program) or theological seminary;
- An evaluation of high school or college transcripts that shows previously demonstrated potential to successfully complete the additional co-curricular programming required for the scholarship;
- Adherence to the University's Code of Community Conduct;
- Demonstration of excellent character and active application of the virtues of Integrity, Justice, and Compassion, as shown in two letters of recommendation;
- Essay question responses that demonstrate character and virtue commitments;
- Previously demonstrated school, community, church, or university service;
- Potential for personal and leadership development.
Expected Commitments
Each selected student will allow their background and record to be shared with the scholarship donors, and must commit to participate in the year-long co-curricular programming, which entails the following:
- Meet each assigned Monday evening during the semester from 6:00 - 7:45 p.m. and other times as is designated;
- Complete weekly assignments in a timely fashion;
- Participate in a minimum of 15 hours of service per semester;
- Participate in Wendt-sponsored academic and social events during the academic year (e.g. Wendt Character Lectures);
- Adhere to the Wendt Character Scholar Pledge;
- Commit to staying in touch after graduation to let us know the impact of the program;
- Bring a lively interest and a willingness to engage in the exploration of what it means to pursue lives of purpose and excellent moral character;
- Maintain academic good standing of 2.5 GPA or better, and good standing in the Office of Student Life.
Application Overview
Applications open on December 1 and close on January 31.
By the deadline indicated above, submit your online application (including essay question responses composed ahead of time and pasted into the online application), plus two professional recommendations from non-family members. At least one of the recommendations should come from a teacher who has instructed you in the classroom. The second recommendation may also come from a teacher or can be from school faculty members or administrators or other members of your church or community who can attest to your demonstrated dedication to character and service to others. (If you are currently attending classes at UD, at least one recommendation must come from a UD professor who has instructed you.)
Essay Questions: There are specific spaces for your essay question responses in the online application. To avoid losing your work through a connection problem or error, compose your responses to the essay questions ahead of time in a separate document (such as Word) and save it; then, when you fill out the online application, paste the text of your essay question responses into each of the spaces provided. Your responses to the following four essay questions together should total 2-3 pages in length (or approximately 100-250 words per question):
- Why do you wish to become a Wendt Character Scholar?
- Discuss your participation in and beliefs about community service, church work, and volunteer work (with time frames for participation).
- We are looking to develop campus character leaders. Explain how you can be a person who could model excellent character and speak up and speak out when necessary to promote good character. Provide examples of activities or responsibilities in your answer.
- Participation in the Wendt Character Scholarship is an extra commitment to go above and beyond the usual commitments of the average college student. What does time management mean to you? Provide examples of virtues or skills it takes to accomplish multiple responsibilities.
- Assess your contributions to your family and friends in your day-to-day conduct. How do virtues such as integrity, justice, and compassion inform your conduct?